Danny Simpson is hoping to emulate former Manchester United enforcer Nicky Butt and forge a successful career at St James' Park.

The 22-year-old is on loan at Newcastle until January – the fifth such deal of his career – as his opportunities at Old Trafford continue to be limited by their glut of right-backs.

His move to the North East, however, appears to have kick-started his career, earning him rave reviews in his short spell there with his tenacious displays.

And just as Butt was forced to five years ago, the Salford-born defender acknowledges he may have to leave United for regular football.

Simpson said: “If there was an opportunity for me to stay at Newcastle then of course I would listen, because I’m not sure I would get these opportunities at United.

“I look at someone like Nicky Butt who is a big figure here at Newcastle - he has won medals, played at the highest level and not looked back since he left Manchester United.

“He’s definitely someone I would talk with to get his advice because he’s made a success of his move. I’ve been at United since I was nine and it would be hard to leave, but I’m 22 now and want to play regular football and kick-start my career.”